Rep. Thomas Massie’s (R-Ky.) ally, Andrew Cooperrider, is facing criticism for suggesting that Massie’s opponent, Ed Gullane, is misusing disability benefits. Cooperrider called Gullane’s claims of being 100% disabled questionable, particularly since he also states he works full-time on a family farm while receiving government assistance. He shared these remarks in a Facebook post, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.
This post sparked backlash, especially from veteran community experts who argue it misrepresents the Department of Veterans Affairs’ disability rating system. It underscores the sensitivity surrounding an election where Massie, a consistent critic of President Trump, is up against a candidate supported by the former president.
Mark Lucas, head of Veterans Action, criticized Cooperrider’s comments as shameful, asserting that having a disability doesn’t necessarily mean one can’t work. Gullane, a former Navy SEAL and Kentucky farmer, positions himself as a pro-Trump candidate focused on party unity, criticizing Massey’s votes against Trump’s initiatives and his outspoken opposition to certain military actions. Trump endorsed Gullane earlier this year.
Tim Murtaugh, an adviser to Gullane, condemned Cooperrider’s remarks as an “aggressive attack,” labeling it a shameful invasion of a veteran’s privacy. Gullane’s military background includes service in conflict areas as a member of SEAL Team 6 before returning to his agricultural roots.
Although Gullane holds a 100 percent disability rating from the VA, it’s unclear what specific injuries contributed to that designation. Darin Selnick, a former adviser at the VA, clarified that these ratings are complex evaluations based on multiple factors and injuries from service, and veterans often have little influence over the final assessment.
Cooperrider has not publicly responded to requests for comments regarding his controversial statements.
